Independent participatory media for Iran

The Iranian foreign minister has announced that the drafting of the final agreement between Iran and the 5+1 has begun.

Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters on Wednesday June 18 that the drafting commenced on Wednesday afternoon. He added, however, that many major differences remain between the parties.

The new round of talks between Iran and the world powers, including the U.S., Britain, Russia, China, France and Germany, began on Tuesday June 17 in Vienna.

The parties are now trying to draft a comprehensive agreement to resolve the nuclear disputes.

Reuters quoted Western diplomats saying Iran is resisting the call to reduce its number of centrifuges, which remains a point of contention.

According to the report, Western parties are not keen on renewing the interim agreement and they want to reach a final deal even if it means the current talks are prolonged beyond the June 20 deadline that was set for it.

While both sides agree progress has been slow, they remain positive and optimistic.